(SEE) plays a key role in fostering each child’s understanding and appreciation of the many aspects of the world around them, including nature, humanity, society, culture, and history. Through the SEE curriculum, we aim to equip our pupils with open-minded, thoughtful, and responsible perspectives, encouraging them to become knowledgeable and compassionate members of both their local area and the broader global community.
The SEE curriculum is structured around two interconnected but distinct subject specifications – History and Geography.
The Primary Curriculum Framework highlights that, ‘Children need to be able to interact and engage with the natural world around them and come to appreciate its value and their responsibilities as custodians of it’. Social and Environmental Education provides a unique lens through which this is enabled.
History
History enables our pupils to learn from the past, about our and others’ cultures and about change and continuity. Starting in the younger years, the children begin to understand who they are through their own life story and through stories about others. As they get older, they learn about the world around us – our environment and society. Learning about History helps children to develop other skills, such as decision-making, reading, writing, and researching. Primary and secondary evidence helps the, to develop their own opinions, which often form after analysis and critical thinking about them. It also helps us determine the reliability of sources.
We are lucky in Scoil Naomh Padraig to be in close proximity to places that are steeped in history, including St. Enda’s Park, the Pádraig Pearse Museum, The Round Tower in Clondalkin and Rathfarnham Castle. The city centre is also easily accessible by bus, opening up the opportunity for children to visit all on offer, including Dáil Éireann, The National History Museum, The National Gallery, the GPO and more!
Geography
Geography teaches children about the world around them. It helps children understand the environment, natural resources, and how human activities impact the planet. It encourages children to become active citizens who are engaged with the world around them. By learning about different cultures, societies, and environments, pupils are better equipped to understand and tackle global issues, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. It also helps to develop skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential for effective citizenship.
We are very fortunate to be surrounded by green spaces and a school garden which provide valuable areas for our pupils to explore the natural environment. Our pupils love going on nature walks, hunts and trails around our grounds. We are a Green School (having achieved 6 Green School Flags) and we actively promote sustainability and biodiversity. Our pupils learn that they are custodians of our environment and partake in activities such as Community Clean-up Days so that they can play their part in their local community and can encourage others to do the same.
We are also blessed to be in close proximity to other natural environments including local playgrounds and parks. Our pupils enjoy opportunities to get out and explore the world around them. They love their adventures beyond the classroom!
